A healthy, confident smile starts early, and when it comes to your child’s dental development, timing is everything. At Burlingame Smile Studio, Dr. April Lee emphasizes the importance of early orthodontic care as a foundation for lifelong oral health. Early evaluations not only address potential issues but also pave the way for a beautiful and functional smile that grows with your child.
Why Start Orthodontic Treatment Early?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early assessment provides a valuable opportunity to detect potential dental or jaw issues before they evolve into more significant problems. Signs that your child may benefit from early orthodontic treatment include crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty chewing, biting issues, and thumb or finger-sucking habits that persist beyond toddler years.
When orthodontic concerns are identified early, interventions can ensure that dental development progresses smoothly. Addressing these issues during childhood not only improves the health and alignment of your child’s smile but also fosters confidence and comfort in their appearance.
The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic interventions are designed to optimize your child’s oral health while minimizing the need for extensive treatments in the future. By identifying and addressing problems early, orthodontists can guide jaw growth and prevent more complex issues like severe crowding or bite misalignment. Properly guided jaw growth also creates ample space for adult teeth to erupt, reducing the likelihood of extractions or surgeries later in life.
Additionally, early treatment can prevent the development of facial asymmetry and correct malocclusion, ensuring that your child’s teeth and jaw function harmoniously. Another remarkable advantage is that early orthodontic care often reduces overall treatment duration and complexity in adolescence, allowing your child to enjoy beautiful, aligned teeth with less time wearing braces or appliances.
Understanding the Two-Phase Treatment Plan
For many children, early orthodontic treatment follows a two-phase plan for optimal results.
Phase One focuses on laying the groundwork for a healthy smile. During this phase, orthodontic appliances may be used to guide appropriate jaw development, create necessary space for teeth to erupt, and address concerns like malocclusion or speech impediments. Treating these issues early helps avoid complications such as TMJ discomfort or significant misalignments as your child grows. Following Phase One, there is often a period of rest to allow for natural growth and development.
Phase Two is the stage where the finishing touches are applied. This phase typically occurs during adolescence when all permanent teeth are present. Braces or aligners may be used to perfect the alignment of teeth and establish balance between the lips, jaw, tongue, and teeth for optimal function and aesthetics. The result is a radiant, confident smile that will last a lifetime.
What Happens If You Delay Treatment?
Postponing orthodontic evaluations or treatment can lead to more invasive and lengthier interventions later in life. Without early care, issues like jaw misalignment or severe crowding may require tooth extractions, jaw surgery, or extended orthodontic treatments during adolescence or adulthood. Addressing potential problems early ensures that your child avoids unnecessary discomfort and achieves their healthiest smile efficiently.
The Burlingame Smile Studio Difference
At Burlingame Smile Studio, Dr. Lee and her team take a personalized, child-friendly approach to orthodontic care. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet your child’s unique needs while ensuring their comfort and understanding throughout the process. The practice offers a supportive environment where kids feel at ease, paired with convenient appointment scheduling and hassle-free parking to make visits stress-free for parents.
Secure Your Child’s Smile Today
Early orthodontic evaluations can have a lasting impact on your child’s oral health and confidence. By addressing concerns and guiding dental development early, you’re giving your child the incredible gift of a functional, beautiful smile. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee at Burlingame Smile Studio and take the first step in ensuring your child’s orthodontic health. Give your child the lifetime gift of a healthy, confident smile—book their orthodontic assessment today!
Contact Dr. April Lee at Burlingame Smile Studio we serve Burlingame, CA, Hillsborough, and Millbrae.
(650) 231-2680
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1740 Marco Polo Way Ste 12
Burlingame, California
94010
